On This Day: January 6th

In 1968 non-league Runcorn visited Southport for an FA Cup 2nd round tie at Haig Avenue.

As the national press hoped for a giant killing, Southport manager Billy Bingham was clear that in terms of approach, Runcorn were no different to Sir Alf Ramsey’s triumphant world cup side who were his opponents as the 36 year old was manager of the Ireland side beaten 2-0 at Wembley in November.

Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Bingham commented: “My approach to Saturday’s match is exactly the same as it was at Wembley. The only difference is the level at which the game is played. In any match you have to adapt, exploiting the potential of the players you have. All you have to bear in mind is the standard involved.

“When you have players of great ability like George Best in your side you use them in a way you hope will bring out their best. The same applies to third Division players, although you can’t get blood out of a stone and expect the same results you would have with Best.”

“We’ll Win. Ireland were the underdogs against England, this time Runcorn are the underdogs. And I know what it’s like being an underdog, so I’m determined there will be no slip-ups at our end”.

With two special trains and over 50 coaches bringing the 3000 travelling supporters to Southport there was a bumper crowd, with Southport’s shiny new 1900 seater main stand on display.

There were even rumours of a £20 per man win bonus for the Runcorn players.

SOUTHPORT 4 – 2 RUNCORN

Stadium: Haig Avenue
Competition: FA Cup / 2
Date: 06/01/1968
Attendance: 13353

Southport Line-Up: Brian Reeves, Eric Curwen, Dave Pearson, Amby Clarke, Arthur Peat, George Andrews, Eric Redrobe, Colin Alty, Terry Harkin, Fred Molyneux, Stuart Shaw,   
Goals: Terry Harkin, Eric Redrobe, George Andrews, George Andrews, 

Following the game, Southport took the decision to increase gate prices for the visit of their third round opponents Everton. Having originally wanted to charge £1 for the stand and 7/6 for the Ground, Everton considered the prices too steep and took the dispute to the FA. Prices of 15/ for the seats (compared with 8/ for the Runcorn tie) and 6/ for the ground were settled upon with an all-ticket 19000 limited.